i actually live in Mendocino County, not Tahoe. I was curious about the Tahoe comment because I go there at least once a year, but the area I live in is not exactly mountainous and gets maybe one day of snow every year. Is there an MPG difference between 2wd and 4x4?

Pics by the end of the day? In my dreams! I'm going to need a few more paychecks from The Man before I can put down anything beyond a trade-in. Just starting the research process, but it's quickly becoming an obsession

I changed from an Xtra Cab (now called an Access Cab) to a Double Cab in 2005 when my kids were 15/16 (girl/boy) as they were getting mighty uncomfortable on our long trips to Baja, and an adult would be in pain... The Xtra Cab was first gen. (2001).

hi, this is my first post here and i'd like to add some perspective. my v6 access cab is used for carrying motorcycles and will carry two sportbikes, tools, spare parts, and a passenger with EASE (~1400lbs). it even has passing power with that weight. the only weak area might be the brakes but they get the job done. empty, the v6 has plenty of passing power and with loads up to 500lbs you can't tell the difference. the power is nice.

that being said... a friend's 4cyl access cab carries his bike, wife, kid and gear (~1000lbs) with no problem as well. he sometimes tows a 1000lb trailer, which is also easy.

hopefully that helps.

as for the access cab, i highly recommend it over the dc unless carrying passengers is a high priority. the access will give you far more flexibility because like mentioned it WILL hold 4ppl. i've had 2 adults in the back for short trips and no complaining (they were even surprised that it has full size seatbelts). with the back seats folded (pre-08 makes a flat floor) it is far larger than the trunk of an average sedan.

Appreciate the perspective, bikedude! I don't really have much to tow in way of motorcycles, but it's very interesting to hear that your friend with the 4cyl can lug around everything with no problem. Thanks again!